Get Started Writing Your Resume Today!
Never written a resume before? Don’t sweat it. Sure, it seems daunting if you are staring at a blank computer screen, but it will not be blank for long!
Developing a solid resume takes work, so do not expect perfection from your first effort. Much like writing a paper, start with an outline and a little messy brainstorming. Worry about editing down the information later, after your first resume-writing session.
Experts suggest a best practice is developing a master resume, from which you can select information and tailor that to specific job opportunities.
To begin building your master resume, start by writing down every job you have ever had. What was your job title? What company or organization did you work for? What did you do? What are some accomplishments that you are especially proud of from this job? What projects did you work on? What tools did you use? When did you hold this job? Again, worry about finessing the language later, after this initial process.
List all of your education experience. Where did you go to school? When did you graduate? What did you study? Where are you currently studying? When are you projected to graduate? What is your major?
List any training you have received. Did you do any coursework for which you received a certificate or a certification? What about any licenses?
List every volunteer position you have held. What was your role? What organization did you volunteer for? What did you do? What are some accomplishments that you are especially proud of from this job? What projects did you work on? What tools did you use? When did you volunteer?
List all of your skills. Do you speak a foreign language? Are you a whiz with specific computer programs?
List all of your core competencies. Do you have a knack for leading people? How are your management, leadership, and communication skills? Like coming up with skills, if this is something you have not done before, it might be a little difficult too.
Put it all together. Now that you have this basic information gathered, it is time to assemble it into a master resume that you can tailor.
Determine which jobs you are qualified for and interested in and refine your resume.
It is time to shape your content. Which of your paid work experiences, education, training, volunteer experiences, skills, and competencies would convince a potential employer that you would be excellent in a role with them? Emphasize those experiences as you develop your resume targeted to that specific opportunity.
Still searching for more in-depth information and advice regarding your job search and resume development? Contact your installation’s Transition Readiness and Family Member Employment Assistance staff and ask the Marine For Life Network on LinkedIn.